The research circle – a tool for preschool teachers’ professional learning and preschool development

The study has investigated a professional learning programme, a research circle, in which kindergarten teachers and researchers collaborated on content related to sustainable development, research and technology. The researchers have looked at how collaboration between kindergarten teachers and researchers can contribute to the further professionalisation of kindergarten teachers. The research question was: How can collaboration between kindergarten teachers and researchers contribute to the professionalisation of kindergarten teachers and further kindergarten development?

The analysis investigated three areas within the fields of education and socialisation: individuals, groups and organisations. The general conclusion was that participation in a research circle supported kindergarten teachers’ practice, addressed problems and challenges, and created improvements in kindergarten teachers’ practice. 

The study was based on a qualitative approach that provided the opportunity to gather detailed and nuanced information. The data collection method consisted of collections in so-called ‘research circles’, where the participants in the study and the researchers met once a month over a one-year period. 12 kindergarten teachers from different kindergartens and municipalities participated in the study. In addition, the participants were to carry out various activities on an electronic platform between the sessions. In preparation for each seminar, participants had to read a selection of texts and write in a group journal.  

Elm, A. & Nordqvist, I. (2019). «The research circle – a tool for preschool teachers’ professional learning and preschool development». European Journal for Teacher Education, 42(5):621-633.